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New DE1 variable speed starter from Eaton

Eaton’s DE1 variable speed starter offers the advantages of both a motor starter and a variable frequency drive in a single device. The DE1 is a compact and easy-to-use device with the ability to change the speed of the motor with the simplicity of a contactor starter. Its design suits users concerned with the complexity of a VSD but who still need variable frequency and advanced motor protection.

Variable speed starters are a new device category, fitting between conventional motor starters and compact variable frequency drives. Moreover, they combine the advantages of three devices: motor starters, soft starters, and VFDs.

The big advantage is that they are as easy to use and understand as a conventional motor starter. Furthermore, they offer variable motor speed and integrated motor protection, with starting currents reduced to rated operational current at full torque from the start. Hence they are suitable as motor starter replacements or used in machine building applications.

To achieve the energy efficiency required by the ErP Directive, applications with simple functionality such as pumps and fans are facing increased demands for drive technology with variable motor speed.

Variable frequency drives for more complex applications need more of application knowledge. The DE1 variable speed starter takes a different approach. It helps users achieve the required energy efficiency levels by adjusting the motor speed. It does this without making mounting or commissioning more complex than for a conventional motor starter.

Advantages of a variable speed starter

– Out-of-the-box commissioning without parameterization.

– Trip-free design ensures greatest machine availability

– As easy to install and use as a motor starter

– No special drives, engineering skills or knowledge required

The DE1 offers 1:1 replacement for motor starters, reversing starters, and soft starters. It features a trip-free design that automatically prevents tripping in borderline situations. Overall, this ensures greatest machine availability. Further, the optional auto-reset function will restart the drive up to 9 times without any manual intervention.

Instant commissioning

Installation or commissioning need no special knowledge of drives. The compact variable speed starter is as easy and convenient to install as is wired like a conventional motor starter. Its out-of-the-box commissioning reduces installation faults and makes installation faster and more cost-efficient!

Simple screwdriver parameterisation

The DE1 comes without a keypad to provide a basic, cost effective solution. The user has the option of using the plug-in configuration module. Changing of parameters like ramp time, motor protection and control terminal function for the application only requires a screwdriver.

Furthermore, the DE1 offers the opportunity to carry out parameterisation using an external remote device with LED display. DrivesConnect software allows users the parameterisation or readout via laptop. They can also copy parameters from one drive to another with the parameter copy stick.

Finally, models for 480 volts, three-phase, 50/60 Hz are available in sizes ranging from 0.37 to 7.5 kW. Models rated at 240 volts, single-phase in/three-phase out, 50/60 Hz are available in sizes from 0.25 to 2.2 kW.

About 999 Automation

We are a specialist UK business carrying large stocks of variable frequency drives available for same-day collection or next-day delivery. We sell on-line but our dedicated and experienced technical support team provides product advice by phone and email as well as on-site.

999 Automation has the backing and support of some of the largest global manufacturers of industrial control product including Schneider, Mitsubishi and Omron. It is part of one of the UK’s foremost electrical distributors.